By Steffen Klenk
This past Saturday, Dec. 7, the non-profit Friends of OCNJ History and Culture hosted their second annual Holiday Home Tour. This three-hour self-guided tour was attended by over 500 people and featured nearly two dozen properties, consisting largely of historic inns, businesses, cottages, and private residences. The tour offered a rare opportunity to witness long-storied history in an up-close setting.
Upon arriving at Scarborough Inn, guests who signed up in advance were provided with a map, highlighting each of the open homes and businesses on tour. At each property, volunteers warmly welcomed guests into the building. There was an immense sense of enthusiasm from property owners, who recollected stories and interacted with the public. Attendees followed a basic set of rules: to be respectful of the hosts and their belongings, and to walk between homes as much as possible to avoid any parking hassles.
Each building listed may have had its own distinct feel and architecture, but one common theme was noticed: the caretakers have put their own heart and soul into preserving history. At Coastal Chateau, on the corner of 6th and Atlantic, owners Lexi, Alyse, and Cindi have transformed this quaint seaside cottage into a boutique hotel. Originally known as ‘Croft Hall’ and ‘Atlantis Inn’, the building dates to 1905 and has been welcoming guests for well over a century.
New this year, guests could take a candle-lit stroll down Plaza Place, one of Ocean City’s historic neighborhoods. Once known as Brighton Estates, houses on this quaint beach-adjacent block were built between 1902 and 1958. Many of its past residents have included elected officials, municipal judges, and entrepreneurs.
Other properties of note on the tour included Dollhouse Row, a group of tiny houses built in the 1920s, along with an original cottage built by the Lake family. The Tabernacle Baptist Church, at 8th and West, was also open, allowing guests to experience the nineteenth century architecture and stained-glass windows. Even Shoppes at the Asbury, located in the lobby of the former Crown Bank building, opened its massive bank safe.
This event not only created new memories and friendships, but served as a reminder of Ocean City’s incredible history and the stewardship of those working to preserve it. According to Friends of OCNJ, more historic tours and events are planned for 2025, with updates to follow.
Photos by Steffen Klenk
